The beauty and charm of historic homes radiate from their unique and stately classic features. However, like the lovely but leaky original windows, many of these features are not as energy efficient as you would like. In fact, the energy bills for a historic home can be somewhat distressing. Fortunately, there are strategies for making […]

The beauty and charm of historic homes radiate from their unique and stately classic features. However, like the lovely but leaky original windows, many of these features are not as energy efficient as you would like. In fact, the energy bills for a historic home can be somewhat distressing. Fortunately, there are strategies for making […]

The beauty and charm of historic homes radiate from their unique and stately classic features. However, like the lovely but leaky original windows, many of these features are not as energy efficient as you would like. In fact, the energy bills for a historic home can be somewhat distressing. Fortunately, there are strategies for making […]

Did your fall exterior brick inspection reveal signs of weather wear and other types of deterioration? It’s not too late to get some expert advice. Historic DC homes require a particular expertise for brick restoration and mortar repair. You will need to find the right masonry contractor in DC who is skilled in traditional tuckpointing methods […]

The stately historic brick homes in most DC neighborhoods were constructed with relatively soft, porous bricks and limestone mortar. Many of the interiors were covered with lime plaster. Occasionally these plastered walls, spackled and repainted during a renovation, show signs of bubbling. This is often caused by water damage to the exterior brick and mortar. 

The stately historic brick homes in most DC neighborhoods were constructed with relatively soft, porous bricks and limestone mortar. Many of the interior walls were covered with lime plaster. Occasionally these plastered walls, spackled and repainted during a renovation, show signs of bubbling. This is often caused by water damage to the exterior brick and […]

You are the proud owner of a beautiful old house located in a neighborhood of historic homes. You and your neighbors value the quality and aesthetics of your homes and are careful to preserve their historic authenticity whenever you make renovations. Did you know that it’s possible to have the modern updates and conveniences that […]

The exposed mortar in many old brick Washington DC chimneys is particularly vulnerable to weather damage. The right mortar joints can last for 25 years or more, but are greatly affected by the weather. If your historic home has a brick chimney, it may need to be repaired before the winter weather hits.

Owners of old brick houses in Washington DC’s historic neighborhoods might notice a crumbling or flaking of the surface of their brickwork. This form of deterioration, known as spalling, usually results from some form of water damage. If your old home is brick and you’re not familiar with spalling, here’s what you should know. 

 “Windows are the eyes of a house.” As the most visible elements of old homes, windows define the character and curb appeal of the buildings. Moreover, they offer clues to the history and architectural integrity of the home. Unfortunately, historic windows are frequently cited as the source of energy loss and owners are encouraged to […]